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Science News Archive July 2014


Page 2 of 34

CU Denver study links self-identified ethnic labels to cultural values

A CU Denver study explores the connection between preferred ethnic labels and cultural heritage among Latin American descent individuals. The research found that Hispanic students identified with traditional US values, while Chicana/o students were more likely to identify with their cultural heritage.

Brother of hibiscus is found alive and well on Maui

A new species of Hibiscadelphus was discovered in a remote valley on Maui, with over 99 trees found, exceeding all previously known combined. The discovery is a significant contribution to Hawaiian natural history and offers hope for the conservation of this highly endangered plant species.

Nikon Monarch 5 8x42 Binoculars

Nikon Monarch 5 8x42 Binoculars deliver bright, sharp views for wildlife surveys, eclipse chases, and quick star-field scans at dark sites.

Groundbreaking research maps cultural history

The study found that Rome, London, and Paris emerged as major cultural centers due to high death rates among intellectuals in these cities. Despite increased travel over the centuries, birth and death locations of notable individuals remained relatively close.

Birthday matters for wiring-up the brain's vision centers

The study reveals that early neurons make many connections but correct mistakes, while later neurons are highly accurate in their target selection skills. The findings provide insight into normal brain development and have implications for understanding autism and other disorders.

SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB

SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB transfers large imagery and model outputs quickly between field laptops, lab workstations, and secure archives.

NYU CDUHR researchers look at prescription opioid abuse among young adults in NYC

A study by NYU CDUHR researchers found that peer group dynamics play a significant role in facilitating the transition from oral and/or intranasal prescription opioid (PO) use to heroin injection. Nonmedical PO users are at high risk of acquiring HIV and/or HCV through injection and sexual risk behaviors associated with drug use.

UT Dallas study reveals effect of loud noises on brain

A study published in Ear and Hearing reveals that prolonged exposure to loud noise can lead to permanent damage of the hair cells in the ear. This damage affects the brain's recognition of speech sounds, potentially increasing difficulty in distinguishing them. The researchers used rats to simulate two types of noise trauma and found t...

Certain Arctic lakes store more greenhouse gases than they release

Research reveals thermokarst lakes in Arctic regions act as climate coolers over longer time scales, storing more carbon than emitting. The study finds that these lakes, which form from thawing permafrost, absorb significant amounts of carbon from the atmosphere, offsetting greenhouse gas emissions.

Apple iPhone 17 Pro

Apple iPhone 17 Pro delivers top performance and advanced cameras for field documentation, data collection, and secure research communications.

Unintended consequences: More high school math, science linked to more dropouts

Research finds that stricter math and science graduation requirements in US high schools are associated with higher dropout rates, especially among certain demographic groups. The study suggests a 'one-size-fits-all' approach to educational policies may not be ideal, as different groups respond differently to increased academic rigor.

Researchers uncover cause of gum disease related to type 2 diabetes

A new study published in the Journal of Leukocyte Biology suggests that modulation of B cells may effectively treat and/or prevent periodontitis symptoms related to type 2 diabetes. Researchers used a mouse model to demonstrate the B cell-response's viability as a target for pharmacological intervention.

AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope

AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope supports teaching labs and QA checks with LED illumination, mechanical stage, and included 5MP camera.

Molecule enhances copper's lethal punch against microbes

A team of scientists at Duke University has discovered a molecule that exploits the body's natural response to fungi and bacteria, using copper to kill microbial pathogens. The findings show promise for developing broad-spectrum antimicrobial agents with minimal harm to healthy cells.

Shrinking dinosaurs evolved into flying birds

Researchers discovered that the theropod dinosaur lineage, which gave rise to modern birds, underwent an unprecedented phase of shrinking and evolutionary innovation. This transformation allowed bird ancestors to adapt to new environments, such as climbing trees and flying, ultimately helping them survive a deadly meteorite impact.

Rigol DP832 Triple-Output Bench Power Supply

Rigol DP832 Triple-Output Bench Power Supply powers sensors, microcontrollers, and test circuits with programmable rails and stable outputs.

Spin diagnostics

Physicists at the Joint Quantum Institute have developed an MRI-like diagnostic technique for studying large ensembles of interacting quantum spins. The method reveals spin-spin interaction strengths and energies of various configurations, offering insights into complex phenomena like magnetism.

Multidisciplinary study reveals big story of cultural migration

A team of researchers, led by Dr. Maximilian Schich, reconstructed the migration and mobility patterns of 150,000 individuals over two millennia using network and complexity science. The study found non-intuitive patterns, including laws of migration, and challenged traditional notions of cultural centers.

Research proves there is power in numbers to reduce electricity bills

New research from Heriot-Watt University and the University of Southampton shows collective switching or group buying schemes can save UK consumers up to a third of their yearly electricity bills. The study proposes a model to help consumers form more efficient buying groups and minimize switching risks.

Fermi satellite detects gamma-rays from exploding novae

Researchers used the Fermi Gamma-ray Space Telescope to discover high-energy gamma rays emitted by an exploding star. The surprising finding dispels the notion that classical nova explosions lack the power to produce such radiation.

Drug target identified for common childhood blood cancer

Researchers at NYU Langone Medical Center identified a possible new drug target, LUNAR1, for treating childhood blood cancer. Blocking LUNAR1's action stalled leukemia progression and may offer an alternative to standard chemotherapy.

Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS, 46mm)

Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS, 46mm) tracks health metrics and safety alerts during long observing sessions, fieldwork, and remote expeditions.

Pressure probing potential photoelectronic manufacturing compound

Researchers at Carnegie Institution found that molybdenum disulfide undergoes structural changes when subjected to high pressure, resulting in a metallic state. The compound's transformation occurs above 197,000 times normal atmospheric pressure and is reversible upon decreasing pressure.

Congressional rift over environment influences public

A new study by Michigan State University scholar Aaron M. McCright found the US public increasingly divided on environmental issues, mirroring Congressional polarization since 1992. The gap between conservatives opposing and liberals supporting environmental protection has grown drastically over two decades.

Breakthrough in understanding of important blood protein

Researchers from University of Southern Denmark and Aarhus University have discovered how the PAI-1 protein behaves, revealing a unique shape change mechanism. This knowledge allows for better control over coagulation, reducing risk of bleeding or blood clots.

Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station

Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station offers research-grade local weather data for networked stations, campuses, and community observatories.

Asteroid attacks significantly altered ancient Earth

Research suggests that giant asteroid impacts significantly altered the early Earth, mixing and melting its surface. The findings provide new insights into the role of asteroid bombardments in shaping the Hadean Earth's surface.

Researchers uncover clues to flu's mechanisms

The study reveals how hemagglutinin protein reconfigures itself as it infects host cells, providing new insights into the path of the flu virus. This understanding could lead to the development of a universal flu vaccine that lasts a lifetime.

Free pores for molecule transport

Karlsruhe Institute of Technology researchers found that corrosion of MOF layers on the surface causes surface barriers, which limit their application opportunities. Water plays a central role in this process, and water-free synthesis strategies are proposed to prevent these barriers.

Creality K1 Max 3D Printer

Creality K1 Max 3D Printer rapidly prototypes brackets, adapters, and fixtures for instruments and classroom demonstrations at large build volume.

Hope for the overweight

Researchers at Helmholtz Munich have developed a new approach to treat obesity and type 2 diabetes, targeting the brown adipose tissue. By identifying specific surface proteins, they aim to selectively deliver substances to this tissue to reduce excess weight without side effects.

Engineering a protein to prevent brain damage from toxic agents

NYU researchers have engineered a protein that can detoxify organophosphates, commonly used in pesticides and warfare agents. The protein has increased stability and half-life, making it suitable for therapeutic applications, including preventing nerve damage from gas attacks or pesticide exposure.

C. difficile vaccine proves safe, 100 percent effective in animal models

A new C. difficile vaccine has been shown to be 100 percent effective in protecting animal models from the deadly intestinal disease caused by Clostridium difficile. The vaccine protects against bacterial toxins and could prevent deadly complications such as severe diarrhea and bowel perforation.

Aranet4 Home CO2 Monitor

Aranet4 Home CO2 Monitor tracks ventilation quality in labs, classrooms, and conference rooms with long battery life and clear e-ink readouts.

In high-stakes soccer, goalkeepers exhibit 'gambler's fallacy'

An analysis of 361 kicks from World Cup and UEFA Euro Cup matches reveals goalkeepers become increasingly likely to dive in the opposite direction after kickers repeatedly kick in one direction. This cognitive fallacy highlights the importance of monitoring sequential behavior in real-world competition.

Mapping the optimal route between 2 quantum states

Researchers from the University of Rochester and others have developed a theory to predict the most likely path a system will take between two quantum states. By tracking millions of quantum trajectories, they were able to demonstrate good agreement between theory and experiment.

DJI Air 3 (RC-N2)

DJI Air 3 (RC-N2) captures 4K mapping passes and environmental surveys with dual cameras, long flight time, and omnidirectional obstacle sensing.

Scientists call for new strategy in pursuit of HIV-free generation

Infants born to HIV-infected mothers are at risk due to limited access to formula and breastfeeding challenges. Researchers advocate for immune-based interventions, including vaccines and nutritional supplements, to prevent postnatal HIV-1 transmission. The development of novel prophylaxis strategies is crucial to achieving an HIV-free...

Classic Lewis Carroll character inspires new ecological model

A new ecological model, called a mean field model for competition, incorporates the 'Red Queen Effect' and improves understanding of species evolution. The model predicts that new species with competitive advantages will evolve and outcompete current species.

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter is a trusted meter for precise measurements during instrument integration, repairs, and field diagnostics.

Study: Marine pest provides advances in maritime anti-fouling and biomedicine

Researchers from Clemson University have discovered that lipids play a crucial role in the adhesion mechanism of barnacle cyprid larvae, paving the way for novel anti-fouling paint for ships and boats. The findings also provide insight into the development of new bio-adhesives for medical and industrial applications.

Antarctic ice sheet is result of CO2 decrease, not continental breakup

Researchers from the University of New Hampshire found that decreased carbon dioxide levels led to the initiation of Antarctic glaciation 34 million years ago, contradicting a long-held theory. The study suggests that CO2-driven cooling played a crucial role in generating the ice sheet.

Nature inspires a greener way to make colorful plastics

Researchers create colored plastics by designing surface structures at the nanoscopic level, manipulating light to produce a wide spectrum of colors. This new approach reduces the need for dyes and pigments, decreasing plastic waste and improving recyclability.

Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro)

Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro) powers local ML workloads, large datasets, and multi-display analysis for field and lab teams.

Hope for more accurate diagnosis of memory problems

Researchers at the University of East Anglia have developed a new diagnostic tool to distinguish between different types of dementia and memory damage. The model takes into account both semantic and autobiographical memories, leading to better approaches for rehabilitation.

Young binary star system may form planets with weird and wild orbits

Astronomers discovered a young binary star system with wildly misaligned planet-forming disks, providing the clearest picture yet of protoplanetary disks around a double star. The system's unique configuration suggests that planets may be influenced by the gravitational pull of a second star, leading to unusual orbits.

Older adults are at risk of financial abuse

A study of over 4,100 New York State residents aged 60+ found that 2.7% were financially exploited in the past year, with 78% having their money or property stolen. Family members, particularly adult children, are the most common perpetrators.

Money talks when it comes to acceptability of 'sin' companies, study reveals

A new study from the University of Toronto's Rotman School of Management found that institutional investors and analysts tend to overlook social norms when investing in 'sin' companies, such as tobacco, alcohol, and gaming firms. However, when performance expectations rise, these investors become more willing to compromise on their val...

GoPro HERO13 Black

GoPro HERO13 Black records stabilized 5.3K video for instrument deployments, field notes, and outreach, even in harsh weather and underwater conditions.

Chinese mosquitos on the Baltic Sea

Ancient insect inclusions in Baltic Sea amber reveal a surprising similarity with Asian forms, dating back 40-50 million years. This discovery fills a long-standing gap in the understanding of species migration between continents.

How is depression related to dementia?

A new study indicates that depression is a true risk factor for dementia and that targeting depression may help prevent cognitive decline. People with mild cognitive impairment were more likely to have higher levels of depression symptoms before diagnosis.

How black truffles deal with the jumpers in their genome

The black truffle genome contains a high rate of methylation, with transposon elements being more likely to be methylated than genes. Reversible epigenetic processes allow the truffle to adapt to its surroundings, increasing its plasticity and potentially playing a role in controlling traits like aroma and color.

Sony Alpha a7 IV (Body Only)

Sony Alpha a7 IV (Body Only) delivers reliable low-light performance and rugged build for astrophotography, lab documentation, and field expeditions.